Steve Letarte to lead No. 88 team in 2014, move to TV in 2015

CONCORD, N.C. - Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Steve Letarte has reached an agreement to join NBC’s multiplatform NASCAR coverage after the conclusion of the upcoming 2014 Sprint Cup Series season, it was announced today by NBC Sports Group.

Beginning in 2015, Letarte will join fellow analyst Jeff Burton and race announcer Rick Allen across NBC Sports Group’s exclusive coverage of Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series action on NBC and NBCSN that includes races, pre- and post-race shows, qualifying, and studio programming.

“You never want to see a talented and all-around quality person like Steve move on, but we understand this is an exciting opportunity for him and his family,” said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports. “He has all the tools to be a terrific broadcaster, and I know our fans will enjoy hearing his perspective.

“We’re looking forward to a successful year in 2014 with Steve and Dale leading the No. 88 together. They have some of the best chemistry in the garage, and we know they’ll build on last season and continue to be a championship-contending team.

“We don’t expect to address the crew chief position until after the season. Everyone with the team is focused on 2014 and committed to having another great year.”